News Summary
The Dreamland Drive-In Theater, once a beloved Asheville hotspot, provided families with magical cinematic experiences since its opening in 1948. Initially a drive-in cinema, it later transformed into a flea market and community hub. As Asheville developed, Dreamland closed in 1990, yet remains a cherished memory of joy and family bonding in the city. The drive-in era may have faded, but the spirit of Dreamland lives on in the hearts of Asheville’s residents.
Asheville’s Dreamland Drive-In Theater: A Nostalgic Glimpse into the Past
Asheville, a city known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, once played host to a magical spot that flickered with cinematic dreams and family fun: the Dreamland Drive-In Theater. November ushers in a wave of nostalgia, and we can’t help but think back to the good old days when families would pile into their cars and settle in for an evening of entertainment beneath the stars.
A Dream Took Flight
In the bustling post-war years of 1948, brothers Paul and Ben Pless opened the very first drive-in theater in Asheville at 91 South Tunnel Road. This was a groundbreaking venture for the community, transforming movie-watching into a fun-filled family affair. Just imagine the excitement: cars lined up, parents and kids ready for the show!
As the years went by, Paul Pless eventually took over the reins after Ben’s departure. Sadly, after Paul’s passing in the early 1960s, his son Joe Pless picked up the mantle and continued the family legacy. Dreamland wasn’t just a theater; it became a small destination with various amenities to cater to patrons looking for a more rounded night out.
Fun for Everyone
By the early 1950s, Dreamland Drive-In had taken the leap into providing a slew of entertainment options beyond just movies. Families could enjoy a round of miniature golf, grab a bite at the restaurant, indulge in some sweet treats from Dairy Queen, and let the kids play at the playground. Adding a convenience store completed the package, making Dreamland a hub for excitement and convenience.
A New Era: Flea Market Fun
As if the days weren’t busy enough, a Baptist Chapel was even constructed on the property during this time, further integrating Dreamland into the community’s fabric.
Changes on the Horizon
However, good times don’t always last forever. By the early ’90s, South Tunnel Road became increasingly developed, making it tough for a drive-in theater to function effectively. The curtains closed on Dreamland’s movie magic for the last time in 1990. As changes swept through the area, Joe Pless made the decision in 1998 to sell most of the property, which was eventually transformed into a Lowe’s store, further shifting the landscape of Asheville.
Come 2005, Joe’s son, Dusty Pless, also bid farewell to the convenience store, as competition from big box stores like Walgreens made it challenging to thrive in that changing market.
A Walk Down Drive-In Memory Lane
Fast forward to today, and sadly, only a handful of drive-ins remain in North Carolina, with the closest being in Shelby and King’s Mountain. But wait—there’s a glimmer of hope! Recently, Walmart launched the Walmart Drive-In, utilizing their parking lots for evening drive-in movies across the U.S., rekindling that nostalgic spark in these modern times.
Conclusion: A Loving Tribute to Dreamland
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Black Mountain News: Dreamland Drive-In Theater
- Wikipedia: Drive-in Theater
- AVL Today: Drive-In Movies in Asheville
- Transylvania Times: Picturing the Past – Drive-In Movie Theaters
- Jambands: Amos Lee Adds Dates to Dreamland Tour
- Britannica: Drive-In Theater
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
